Shape the future of the consumer.
Shaping Retail Futures.
The Level 6 Assistant Buyer & Assistant Merchandiser programme develops individuals to work in roles involved with sourcing, selecting, maintaining and delivering the right products to meet demand and business objectives.
This role is typically found in the retail sector across a range of company types and using effective business forecasting, risk and opportunity analysis, creativity and business insight, buyers and merchandisers anticipate and shape customer demand and market trends.
Scotland and Wales learners ONLY - Your programme is not eligible for UK funding, but an alternative opportunity is being provided to you. You will be able complete the programme along with all other Iceland colleagues but will be exempt from completing the End Point Assessment (EPA) and your functional skills. Additionally, you will receive a fully accredited qualification at the end of the programme.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
BLENDED LEARNING
Tailored Training Modules for Your Needs: Our apprenticeship programme has been built to fit the dynamic and realistic needs of Iceland's colleagues. Through a blended learning approach providing both face-to-face and virtual delivery, we offer you a well rounded learning experience that adapts to the fast-paced demands of the industry.
TRUE PARTNERSHIP
What sets our programme apart is our commitment to really understanding you our learners and building a true partnership with Iceland. You will experience a unique blend of learning activities, carefully created to mirror the challenges and opportunities specific to how the stores operated day to day.
WORKING BETTER TOGETHER
You will benefit from face-to-face sessions where you can engage with expert trainers and peers and learn from each other's experiences and knowledge of the business. Likewise, our virtual delivery methods make sure accessibility and flexibility, allowing you to access learning resources anytime, anywhere.
GROUP APPROACH
Our group based approach not only drives an amazing learning experience but provides a support network for you to work with to help achieve your goals and ultimately be a real success. It's more than just a development programme; it's a journey that we will go on together, driving support and challenge across the retail market.
START DATES
Ongoing
ELIGIBILITY
Currently in a role within the buying and merchandising team and mentoring/team leading at least 1 person.
DURATION
In learning 24 months plus End Point Assessment.
1 PROGRESS REVIEW WITH YOUR MANAGER EVERY 12 WEEKS
Behaviours are an important part of the programme in helping to shape and drive high performance.
ROLE MODEL
INCLUSIVE
COMMERCIAL AWARENESS
AGILE
TAKES RESPONSIBILITY
PROFESSIONALISM
DECISION-MAKING
PROACTIVE
During the Level 6 Assistant Buyer & Assistant Merchandiser programme you will develop a range of knowledge, skills and behaviours, including:
Understand product portfolio and brand image
Identify current and future customer behaviours
Know the buying critical path and its impact
Recognise end-of-life for products and ranges
Understand UK/global market influences
Build strong external stakeholder relationships
Use customer and business insights for portfolio decisions
Select products that align with brand and portfolio
Anticipate demand and ensure timely product delivery
Respond to key influences on buying/merchandising plans
Evaluate cost and income to guide decisions
Negotiate for optimal business outcomes
Acts as a brand and function ambassador
Resilient, responsible, and commercially aware
Proactive and takes initiative
Seeks personal and team development
Builds strong cross-functional relationships
Applies creativity in their role
You will have access to a Totum Card for just £14.99. Discount at 400+ brands and a Free Tastecard with Coffee Club (worth £79.99 a year).
"I’m relatively new to retail, so the apprenticeship felt like a great opportunity to deepen my knowledge and get a broader understanding of both buying and merchandising. One of the most interesting things I’ve learned so far is about customer insights and profiling — understanding who our customers are and whether our ranges really meet their needs. The best part? The varied discussions. You’re learning alongside people from all kinds of businesses, which brings fresh perspectives. If you’re thinking about applying, I’d say go for it. It might sound like a lot to take on, but it’s actually really easy to fit around your job and your life — and it’s so worth doing.".
Amy, B&Q Learner
INTERESTED IN A B&Q APPRENTICESHIP?
Be proactive. Be ambitious. Be you.
Apply now and take the next step in your career at B&Q.
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